Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple
Victoria's sole Hindu temple, a vibrant hub of faith and culture, welcoming all to experience its serene ambiance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Temple reopens, serene atmosphere
Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple
Best Time
Temple reopens, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Victoria's sole Hindu temple, a vibrant hub of faith and culture, welcoming all to experience its serene ambiance.
"A peaceful and welcoming place of worship, reflecting the diverse cultural tapestry of Seychelles."
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect. :pray:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Closes midday, reopens evenings. Plan accordingly! :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Statues
Main prayer hall
Marvel at the detailed statues of deities, showcasing vibrant artistry and spiritual significance.
Peaceful Ambiance
Temple grounds
Experience a serene and tranquil environment, perfect for quiet reflection and spiritual connection.
Cultural Diversity
Temple exterior and surroundings
Witness a symbol of religious harmony, reflecting the diverse cultural tapestry of Seychelles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect. :pray:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Closes midday, reopens evenings. Plan accordingly! :clock1:
📸 Photography Rules
Ask before taking photos inside. Respect the sanctity. :camerawithflash:
💰 Free Entry, Donations Welcome
No tickets needed, but contributions are appreciated. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect. :pray:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Closes midday, reopens evenings. Plan accordingly! :clock1:
📸 Photography Rules
Ask before taking photos inside. Respect the sanctity. :camerawithflash:
💰 Free Entry, Donations Welcome
No tickets needed, but contributions are appreciated. :moneybag:
👃 Incense Aroma
Be prepared for a strong incense smell. :perfume:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple is appreciated for its peaceful atmosphere and role as a welcoming place of worship, reflecting Seychelles' cultural diversity. However, some visitors have noted an unkempt interior and a strong incense smell, which can detract from the spiritual experience for some.
"Southern Indian temple that is pretty. Come here as part of your Victoria tour. Note it closes at noon and reopens 6pm. It is testimony to the emigre of Southern Indians to Sesel, many work in the retail distribution trade."
Leong K Lam
"Visited this lovely temple with my family, very peaceful and welcomed for all who wishes to come here! Lovely place of worship. This is a temple there are no tickets to buy…"
Lalit Patel
"I don’t know why people like this place. It was dirty and I felt like I was in a storage room — milk cartons on the floor, a pallet, security camera footage displayed on TVs. I didn’t feel any sense of reverence for religion. I saw a lot of things I don’t want to see in a church; a visitor shouldn’t have to look at milk cartons on the floor."
Laszlo Dobos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is located in Victoria, the capital of Seychelles. It's easily accessible by foot if you're already in the city center. Taxis are also readily available for a convenient ride. Many visitors include it as part of their city tour. 
Yes, it's a prominent landmark in Victoria and often mentioned in city guides. If you're exploring the capital, you'll likely stumble upon it or can easily ask locals for directions.
Many visitors opt for a walking tour of Victoria to see various religious sites, including this temple, within a short distance of each other.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the temple is free. Visitors are welcome to enter and experience the spiritual atmosphere without purchasing a ticket.
While there's no admission fee, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain the temple.
The temple typically has specific operating hours, often closing in the midday and reopening in the late afternoon or evening. It's best to confirm the exact times before your visit.
It's advisable to check the temple's specific opening and closing times, as they may vary. Many visitors find the evenings to be a peaceful time to visit.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find various statues of deities, a strong scent of incense, and a peaceful ambiance. Some visitors have noted seeing items like milk cartons or security footage displayed, which can be unexpected for some.
Photography rules can vary. It's best to observe any signage or ask temple authorities before taking pictures inside to ensure you're respecting their guidelines.
The temple is described as peaceful and a lovely place of worship by many. It offers a serene environment for reflection.
A visit can be quite short, with some suggesting around 15 minutes to see the main prayer area and observe the surroundings.
Yes, the temple is welcoming to all who wish to visit, regardless of their religious background.
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful exterior and the intricate details of the statues inside (if photography is permitted) are popular subjects. The temple's unique presence in Victoria also makes for interesting shots.
Photography inside the main prayer hall might be restricted. Always check for signs or ask for permission before photographing religious icons.
While not specifically mentioned for this temple, drone usage is often regulated in urban and sensitive areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the temple's midday closure might require careful planning around nap times or meal schedules. The visual elements, like the colorful statues, can be engaging for younger visitors, but it's important to manage expectations regarding the overall experience, especially if some areas are less pristine than others.
✨ Spiritual Seekers & Culture Enthusiasts
Engage with the temple's architecture and the symbolism of its deities. While photography inside might be limited, the exterior and the surrounding area offer insights into the community. Understanding the temple's role within the diverse religious landscape of Seychelles will enrich your experience.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Symbol of Cultural Harmony
+1This temple is not just a place of worship but also a cultural hub. It showcases the rich traditions and artistry of Hinduism, with intricate carvings and statues of deities. Visitors often remark on the peaceful atmosphere, making it a serene escape within the bustling capital. The temple's architecture and the spiritual energy it emanates are key draws for both devotees and tourists seeking a glimpse into the island's multicultural fabric.
Despite being a place of worship, the temple's location in the city center means it's easily integrated into a day of exploring Victoria. Its accessibility and welcoming nature make it a must-visit for those interested in understanding the unique blend of cultures that define Seychelles.
Visitor Experiences: What to Expect
However, some visitors have reported less than ideal conditions, describing the interior as feeling like a 'storage room' with items like milk cartons and displayed security footage, which detracted from their sense of reverence. The strong smell of incense is also a notable sensory experience for many.
Despite these mixed reviews, the temple remains a significant cultural site. It's important for visitors to approach their visit with an understanding of its function as an active place of worship and to be mindful of local customs and the specific environment within the temple.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit